The Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC) has to date facilitated four (4) GSAR Trainer Development Sessions. The sessions where conducted in Newfoundland, Quebec, PEI and Ontario, with a total of 85 trainers in attendance.
Challenges and opportunities in regard to GSAR training were provided by the participants prior to the session. During each session, actions to address these challenges and opportunities were proposed by trainers, and the potential next steps for implementation were identified to enhance training development for each region.
Trainers were also introduced to the CSA hosted GSAR Online Trainers Community website and were registered post session in order to start using the site for training communications and networking. Reaction to the website is very positive, as it brings together a community of all GSAR trainers in Canada.
Trainer Development sessions will be held this fall and winter (2017/18) in Alberta, Yukon, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan and Manitoba for a total of 10 Provinces and Territories.
SARVAC looks forward to meeting and working with the GSAR trainers throughout Canada.